Cracking Smart, favourite for the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham, will miss the Festival.
Trainer Gordon Elliott told his Betfair Blog: "Unfortunately Cracking Smart had a setback so he is out of the Albert Bartlett and will not run for the remainder of the season."
The Gigginstown Stud-owned six-year-old had chased home Next Destination on his last two starts and was expected to relish the step up to three miles at Prestbury Park.
In his absence that rival is now 4/1 favourite (non-runner/no bet and Best Odds Guaranteed) with Sky Bet for the Albert Bartlett, ahead of stablemates Santini and Chef Des Obeaux who are both 9/2.
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